Spring Plumbing Tips

Spring Plumbing Checklist: Get Your Home Ready for the Season

Spring is just around the corner! While you may already be deep into spring cleaning, have you thought about spring plumbing maintenance?

Winter’s harsh conditions can take a toll on your pipes, drains, and appliances—and as the seasons change, new plumbing concerns arise. Follow this spring plumbing checklist to protect your home and ensure everything is running smoothly.

1. Repair Leaks

✔️ Check faucets & toilets for leaks – A leaky faucet is easy to spot, but toilet leaks can go unnoticed.
💡 Pro Tip: Add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank. If color appears in the bowl after 30 minutes, you have a leak.
✔️ Inspect appliances – Check washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators for worn-out hoses.
✔️ Upgrade to stainless steel hoses – They last longer and prevent leaks from worsening.

2. Clean Your Drains

✔️ Snake your drains – Bathroom drains easily clog with hair and debris. Use a drain snake to remove buildup.
✔️ Use drain stoppers – Prevent future clogs by installing drain covers.
✔️ Flush unused drains – Pour water into drains that aren’t used often to prevent odors from sewer gas.
✔️ Test your sump pump – Pour water into the sump pit to make sure it activates properly.

3. Clean Shower Heads

✔️ Remove mineral buildup – Unscrew the shower head and soak it in vinegar overnight.
✔️ Scrub off loosened deposits – The next day, scrub the shower head for better water flow and pressure.

4. Check Your Water Heater

✔️ Adjust the temperature – As the weather warms up, consider lowering the water heater temperature to reduce energy costs.
✔️ Flush the tank – Drain a few gallons of water from the heater to remove sediment buildup.
💡 Pro Tip: Sediment buildup causes corrosion and reduces efficiency, making your heater wear out faster.

5. Install a Backflow Valve

✔️ If your area is prone to sewer backups, installing a backflow valve can prevent future issues and protect your home.

6. Consider a Flood Alarm

✔️ Flood alarms work just like smoke alarms but alert you to water leaks.
✔️ Great for flood-prone areas or basements with sump pumps.

7. Don’t Forget the Outside of Your Home

✔️ Clean out gutters & yard drains – Prevent water damage & standing water issues.
✔️ Check for outdoor faucet leaks – Look for dripping spigots & hose bibs.
✔️ Inspect vents & pipes – Ensure there are no birds’ nests or blockages.

Need Help? Call the Plumbing Experts!

Spring plumbing maintenance can prevent costly repairs and keep your home running efficiently. If you need professional plumbing services, Finken is here to help!

📞 Call us today for expert plumbing repairs, maintenance, and installations!